We also share research on a variety of social policy issues conducted by our partners.

The research provides evidence that can help inform policy and decision-making at all levels of government and across sectors.

Latest Reports

Who Votes in Toronto Municipal Elections

This new study conducted for Maytree by Ryerson University Professor Myer Siemiatycki and geographic analyst Sean Marshall identifies important variations in voter turnout among eligible Toronto voters. The study explored the connection between municipal voting behaviour and some of Toronto’s prime demographic characteristics like immigrant status, visible minority identity, income and home ownership.

The Many Faces of Leadership in a Thriving City: A Rethink of the Toronto Narrative

Toronto residents have been told over and over that their City faces a leadership crisis. The media has frantically reported on the scandal and intrigue. The mayor has been stripped of his powers. They are told that Council is dysfunctional and that the city, crippled by gridlock and mismanagement, is failing. This narrative misses the mark, argues Alan Broadbent in the second in a series of IMFG Pre-Election Perspectives papers. The fact is, Toronto is booming, and this hasn’t happened by accident.

The pace and scope of change in Canada’s immigration system in recent years leaves one breathless. From 2008 to July 1, 2012, the federal government has made changes to every aspect of immigration policy, including the way in which reform is undertaken, and more changes are proposed. While some of the recent changes are positive, many are problematic. The changes could have a dramatic impact on both the social and economic fabric of Canada and how the country is perceived by potential immigrants from around the world.

A poll of more than 2,000 people reveals that Canadians think citizenship is more than paying taxes or obeying the law.

While these things are important, when asked what makes someone a good citizen, Canadians emphasize being active in their community, volunteering, helping others, and accepting others who are different. The survey also explores issues around citizenship acquisition, rights and responsibilities, civic participation, civic education and multiple identities.

Immigrant Self-Employment and Entrepreneurship in the GTA by Dr. Sarah Wayland explores whether self-employment and entrepreneurship is a viable option for lifting new Canadians out of poverty in the Greater Toronto Area.

Existing services, programs and policies available in the Greater Toronto Area for immigrant entrepreneurs;

Lessons learned from other jurisdictions; and

Preliminary observations about the efficacy of existing supports for self-employed immigrants, and gaps in services.

The research finds that there are a suite of services for entrepreneurs in the GTA, but that there is a paucity of supports targeted towards the unique barriers immigrants face when starting a business. It identifies the need for future research and suggests possible policy and program ideas for various stakeholders.